On Wednesday, June 23, 2021, the 50th Anniversary of the World Organization of Funeral Operatives (FIAT-IFTA), Japan Conference, and the 65th Anniversary of the All Japan Funeral Directors Co-Operation, All Japan Conference (Kanagawa), were held at the Yokohama Royal Park Hotel in Nishi Ward, Yokohama.

 

The event, originally scheduled for June 2020, was a great success. A total of 418 participants took part, with 127 participants attending the on-site event and 291 tuning in to the online broadcast. Online attendees included 130 overseas participants from 88 countries.

Commemorative Speeches, Reports from Each Country, and Panel Discussions Made for a Fruitful Event

The day began with ceremonies for the 50th anniversary of the World Organization of Funeral Operatives (FIAT-IFTA) and the 65th anniversary of the All Japan Funeral Directors Co-Operation, and a joint declaration by the two organizations.

At the commemoration ceremony, Her Imperial Highness Princess Akiko delivered a speech, which was followed by reports on the funeral situation in various countries.

The program concluded with a panel discussion that saw panelists engage in lively conversation, along with a report on the results of a survey conducted by a collaboration of industry, academia, and government on the attitudes of the bereaved.

Online Distribution Entrusted to an Experienced Hotel Brought Peace of Mind

This international conference was the first for the World Organization of Funeral Operatives (FIAT-IFTA) to be held after the global outbreak of the coronavirus. Before the pandemic, it was customary for participants from around the world to attend conferences and for various activities to be held.

Much consideration was given to the question of how to hold a conference during a pandemic. The result was the new hybrid format introduced this year. The Royal Park Hotel, experienced in online conferencing as well as other types of events, provided excellent support, and the event was made available for streaming at a later date for a fee for those unable to attend.

Spacious Venue Combined with Thorough Infection Control

The event was held in the HOH-SHOH Grand Ballroom on the third floor of the hotel. A large venue was selected to accommodate socially distanced seating arrangements, while still ensuring speakers could engage with the audience.

The hybrid format allowed for a richer experience for local participants, who were able to meet in person after not seeing one another for a long time.

[Postscript]

The 50th Anniversary of the World Organization of Funeral Operatives (FIAT-IFTA), Japan Conference, and the 65th Anniversary of the All Japan Funeral Directors Co-Operation, All Japan Conference (Kanagawa), received support from the Yokohama Convention & Visitors Bureau through the Yokohama MICE Events Support Subsidy System. Event organizers face increased financial burdens and challenges when hosting hybrid events. The bureau offers a variety of support services to ensure that a wide range of conferences and events can be held in Yokohama with peace of mind.

• Name of Event 50th Anniversary of the World Organization of Funeral Operatives (FIAT-IFTA), Japan Conference, and the 65th Anniversary of the All Japan Funeral Directors Co-Operation, All Japan Conference (Kanagawa)
• Dates Wednesday, June 23, 2021
• Venue HOH-SHOH Grand Ballroom, Yokohama Royal Park Hotel
• Organizer All Japan Funeral Directors Co-Operation